Impotence is the lack of erection of the penis, which is necessary to have sexual intercourse. To actually have this disorder, the dysfunction of erection must occur on a regular basis. This is important, since most all men experience occasional problems with erections. Impotence is not an inevitable part of aging. Older men certainly may maintain the capacity for erection. However, older men may need more stimulation to achieve erection and may need more time in-between erections than before.
Causes of Impotence, Male Sexual
The causes of impotence are multiple and include physiological and psychological disorders. Psychological causes include guilt feelings and poor relationship with the sexual partner. Any form of depression, anxiety, stress and psychosis may impact the ability to have normal sexual function. Lack of sufficient sexual information, including an understanding of the emotional aspects of sexuality and information about female anatomy and physiology, may lead to impotence. Situational disorders, such as other people in the home, can affect male sexual function. Physical causes include diabetes mellitus and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). both of these disorders can affect the blood supply to the penis and diabetes can also lead to dysfunction of the nerves. Disorders of the nervous system, including spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, stroke and syphilis can all produce impotence. Hormonal abnormalities can influence the ability to have sex. These disorders can arise from the pituitary gland, the thyroid gland, the adrenal glands and the testicles. Certain drugs, particularly certain antihypertensive medications, can lead to sexual dysfunction. Chronic use of alcohol can adversely affect sexual function. Drug abuse, especially marijuana, can cause problems with obtaining and sustaining an erection. Cocaine, narcotics, tranquilizers, sedatives, hypnotics and hallucinogens all can adversely affect sexual function in men. sedatives Situational causes: presence of other people in the home.
Signs and Symptoms of Impotence, Male Sexual
Impotence usually has two main features. They are the inability to achieve an erection and the inability to maintain an erection for normal duration of intercourse (erection may be too weak, too brief, or too painful).
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Medical Content Last Updated on 07/12/2008
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